20,000 people protest against the austerity measures in the Athens center (pics + vid)

Greece is gripped by 24-hour strike action on Thursday called by the General Confederation of Greek Workers (GSEE) and the Greek Workers Association (ADEDY) in reaction to the Greek budget reforms and the demolition of Greek workers rights.

People have been gathering at the rallies in downtown Athens with the All-Militant Workers Front (PAME) at Omonoia Square since 10 a.m. The group headed to Syntagma at 10.50 a.m. Present at the rally is Greek Communist Party (KKE) Leader Dimitris Koutsoumbas, former leader Aleka Papariga and other KKE deputies.

The All-Workers Militant Front (PAME)  and Association of Self-Employed Workers and Tradesman of the Municipality of Athens

GSEE and ADEDY gathered at Klafthmonos Square for a separate rally.

Some incidents occurred shortly after 12:30 at Stadiou Street with some people causing damages to shops.